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I took a walk down memory lane recently during my healthy candy series, where I recreated some of my favorite childhood candy. I started with healthy snickers, then homemade crunch bars, 4 ingredient date caramels, and healthy butterfingers. These candy recreations reminded me of all the packaged treats I was obsessed with as a kid, and at the top of my list was always (& forever <3) cosmic brownies!

The quest to recreate a cosmic brownie seemed easy enough – make a gluten-free fudgy brownie base, top with dairy-free chocolate ganache, then rainbow coated chocolate chips! And I’m not going to lie, I managed to perfect the brownies on my second try, but the rainbow chips required some extra work. I scoured the internet for dayssss trying to find dye-free rainbow chips and OMG I finally did! On Amazon, too, of all places (linked here). So with that major score, my healthy gluten free cosmic brownies finally came together. And oh boy are they PERFECT!

two healthy gluten free cosmic brownies stacked on top of each other.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These gluten-free cosmic brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make with just 7 ingredients. The one-bowl recipe keeps things simple while still delivering a decadent brownie base topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. They’re also dairy-free, gluten-free, and can easily be adjusted to suit various dietary needs—perfect for anyone craving a healthier, nostalgic treat!

What You Need to Make Gluten-Free Cosmic Brownies

  • Almond Butter: Acts as the base for the brownies, adding richness and a boost of healthy fats while keeping the brownies naturally gluten-free.
  • Maple Syrup: Sweetens the brownies with a natural touch, adding moisture and flavor without the need for refined sugars.
  • Egg & Egg Yolk: Help to bind the ingredients and add structure to the brownie base, giving it that fudgy, chewy texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors of the brownies, adding a warm, comforting note to the overall taste.
  • Cocoa Powder: Provides the rich chocolate flavor, while also being gluten-free and dairy-free.
  • Chocolate Chips & Non-Dairy Milk: Create a smooth and creamy chocolate ganache topping that sets the brownies apart with its rich, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
  • Rainbow Sprinkles: For more authentic looking cosmic brownies, use rainbow coated chocolate chips on top. I found these dye-free rainbow chips on Amazon and they’re perfect!

How to Make Gluten-Free Cosmic Brownies

  1. Preheat: Heat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together almond butter, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla. Add cocoa powder and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
  4. Prepare Ganache: While the brownies cool, melt chocolate chips and non-dairy milk to create a silky ganache.
  5. Assemble: Once the brownies have cooled, pour the ganache over the top, and sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles for that iconic cosmic brownie look. Let them set in the fridge before slicing and enjoying.
healthy gluten free cosmic brownies on parchment paper.

Storage Tips

Store these brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just defrost in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make It Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
  • Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and reduce the maple syrup, replacing part of it with a sugar-free sweetener if desired.
  • Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative for a nut-free version of these brownies.
healthy gluten free cosmic brownie with a bite taken out
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Gluten Free Cosmic Brownies

This recipe is an easy, one-bowl, 7-ingredient solution for gluten-free cosmic brownies! They're healthy, gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made vegan or low-sugar. With its nostalgic appeal and rich chocolate flavor, it’s the perfect indulgent treat, still packed with better-for-you ingredients.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 9×9-inch baking pan
  • large bowl
  • small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond butter
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 whole egg and 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

For the chocolate ganache frosting:

  • 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup non-dairy milk
  • 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles or rainbow coated chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup, egg and egg yolk, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
  • Add in the cocoa powder, then whisk again to fully combine the brownie batter.
  • Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the brownies comes out mostly clean.
  • Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes.
  • Once brownies are slightly cool, make the chocolate ganache by melting together the chocolate chips and non-dairy milk in 30 second bursts in the microwave. Once the chocolate has melted, stir together the ganache until it’s smooth and combined.
  • Pour the ganache over the brownies and top with sprinkles. Then, transfer the brownies to the fridge for 1 hour, or until the ganache is firm.
  • Remove the brownies from the pan and cut into squares. Enjoy right away or store in the fridge for later on!

Nutrition

Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 5.2g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 16.5g

This healthy homemade butterfingers recipe is made with just 5 simple ingredients! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened for a better-for-your treat. They join my healthy candy lineup, right alongside healthy snickers, 3 ingredient homemade crunch bars, and healthy date caramels. These homemade butterfingers are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of a favorite candy bar!

healthy homemade butterfingers on parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These healthy homemade butterfingers are a delicious and satisfying treat with just 5 simple ingredients. They’re a guilt-free version of the classic candy bar, made gluten-free, dairy-free, and with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for storing in the freezer for a quick snack or dessert.

What You Need to Make Healthy Butterfingers

  • Peanut Butter: The rich, creamy base that gives these bars their signature nutty flavor. Choose a natural variety with no added sugar for a healthier option.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners bring the perfect touch of sweetness while keeping the recipe refined-sugar free.
  • Corn Flakes: Adds the necessary crunch to replicate the crispy texture found in classic butterfingers. Make sure to choose gluten-free corn flakes if needed. The Real Cereal Organic Corn Flakes are the best ones I’ve found, they’re unsweetened and made with just 2 ingredients!
  • Chocolate Chips: Melting the chocolate for coating gives that irresistible outer layer, while dark chocolate keeps the sugar content lower.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and adds a subtle flavor boost. I use and love Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil in many of my recipes!

How to Make Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

Start by crushing the corn flakes and mixing them with peanut butter and honey to form a crispy, sweet mixture. Press it into a loaf pan to set in the freezer before dipping each bar in melted chocolate. Freeze them again for a crunchy, chocolate-covered treat that’s perfect for a healthier snack or dessert.

healthy homemade butterfingers stacked on top of each other,

Storage Tips

Once made, store your homemade butterfingers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, they’ll stay fresh and ready for whenever you need a sweet treat.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Low Carb: Choose a sugar-free chocolate alternative and use a low-carb cereal.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
close up image of healthy butterfingers cut in half.
No ratings yet

Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

This healthy homemade butterfingers recipe is made with just 5 simple ingredients. They're gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened for a better-for-your treat. These homemade butterfingers are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of a favorite candy bar!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups corn flakes
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Instructions

  • Add the corn flakes to a large zip-top bag, seal the bag and crush the cereal into small pieces.
  • Add the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup to a large bowl and mix together to combine. Add the crushed corn flakes to the bowl and mix again to fully combine.
  • Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper, and press the cereal down into the pan to create an even layer. Place in the freezer to harden for at least 1 hour.
  • Remove the pan from the freezer and carefully lift the corn flake mixture out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into 12 bars.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together, whisk to combine, and then dip each bar into the melted chocolate to completely coat. Remove the bar from the chocolate and set on a parchment-lined plate. Repeat this process with all 12 butterfingers until all are coated in chocolate.
  • Transfer the butterfingers to the freezer for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened. Then, enjoy right away or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months (if they last that long!).

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 12g

If we’re being completely honest, I’m not sure the last day I went without eating any chocolate. I always manage to have at least a little chocolate throughout my day, and then of course, to end my day. My chocolate of choice is usually something I can quick and easy, that I can just grab-and-go. Recently I’ve had a batch of my 3-ingredient healthy crunch bars stored in my freezer which have been fabulous! And next to those, are my last batch of healthy homemade date caramels – SO GOOD.

To keep my daily chocolate streak going, I decided to add yet another chocolatey treat to the mix. *Enter healthy edible brownie batter, made with just 5 ingredients!* This edible brownie checks all of my boxes. One, it’s chocolate. Two, it’s super easy to make. Three, there’s no baking require. And four, it’s entirely gluten-free, dairy-free, and low sugar! SO if you’re anything like me and just can’t live without at least a bite of chocolate to get you through the day, then you’re going to love this edible brownie batter. Enjoy, friends! And if you try this recipe, please leave a star rating and review. I always appreciate your support so so much!

healthy edible brownie batter in a jar on a tea towel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and comes together in just minutes! It’s perfect for when you want a quick, indulgent treat that’s also healthier than traditional brownie batter. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be adjusted for vegan or low-carb diets.

What You Need to Make Edible Brownie Batter

  • Butter or Coconut Oil: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the batter. Coconut oil keeps the recipe dairy-free and adds a subtle tropical flavor, while butter offers a more classic taste.
  • Milk (Non-Dairy or Dairy): Helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency. You can use any milk, but non-dairy versions like almond or oat milk work great for a plant-based option.
  • Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Sweetens the batter naturally, with coconut sugar providing a lower-glycemic option than regular sugar, while brown sugar brings a caramel-like sweetness.
  • Almond Flour or All-Purpose Flour: Almond flour keeps this recipe gluten-free and adds a slightly nutty flavor. If you plan on doing a lot of healthy, gluten-free baking, I recommend buying your almond flour in bulk on Amazon to save money! But If you’re not gluten-sensitive, regular all-purpose flour works too. But if you’re going to use all-purpose flour, make sure you heat-treat it first to ensure it’s safe to eat in this brownie batter.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds that rich, deep chocolate flavor to give the batter its brownie taste.
  • Chocolate Chips: The final touch for a bit of texture and extra chocolatey goodness. I use and love the Guittard extra dark chocolate chips in all of my chocolate recipes (they’re dairy-free btw!).

Is it Safe to Eat?

Yes, this recipe is completely safe to eat! There are no raw eggs involved, and if you use almond flour, you avoid any potential issues with uncooked all-purpose flour. If using regular flour, be sure to heat-treat it first by microwaving or baking it to ensure it’s safe to consume.

healthy edible brownie batter in a small jar with a spoon.

How to Make Edible Brownie Batter

Making this brownie batter couldn’t be easier! Simply mix together all the ingredients, fold in your chocolate chips, and enjoy right away. There’s no need for baking or any fancy equipment.

Storage Tips

Store your edible brownie batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it come to room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Switch Up The Flavors of This Edible Brownie Batter

This edible brownie batter is delicious as-is, but you can easily switch up the flavors to keep things exciting! Try adding a pinch of sea salt, a splash of vanilla extract, or even some crushed nuts for extra crunch. For a minty twist, mix in a drop of peppermint extract!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Vegan: Use coconut oil and non-dairy milk, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Low Carb: Swap out the coconut sugar for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
  • Nut-Free: Use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour and replace any nut-based ingredients with allergy-friendly alternatives.

Healthy, Gluten-Free, and Low-Sugar!

This edible brownie batter is a healthier alternative to traditional recipes, with just 5 ingredients and no refined sugar. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made vegan, making it a great guilt-free treat you can whip up anytime.

close up image of healthy edible brownie batter in a jar with a spoon.
5 from 2 votes

Healthy Edible Brownie Batter

This simple and healthy edible brownie batter recipe is made with just 5 ingredients, is gluten-free, and can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary needs. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your brownie cravings without any baking required!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons softened coconut oil or butter
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk (I used non-dairy milk)
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup almond flour or heat-treated all purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (I used extra dark chocolate chips)

Instructions

  • Add all ingredient except chocolate chips to a large bowl and mix to combine.
  • Then, fold in the chocolate chips and enjoy!

Notes

The nutrition facts have been calculated for 4 servings, and without the chocolate chips. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 240kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 5.6g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 13g

Since my last cookie dough bark recipe went viral, I’m back with a protein version! This protein cookie dough bark is just as delicious, but with an additional 8 grams of protein per serving. I love making a batch at the beginning of the week to snack on all week long. But if you’re in need of a sweet treat with even more protein, give my single serve protein cookie a try (with 30 grams of protein). What can I say? I just really love a high-protein, gluten free, and low sugar snack!

protein cookie dough bark pieces stacked on top of each other.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Almond Flour: Acts as a gluten-free and low-carb base. I buy almond flour in bulk on Amazon, since I use it in so many of my healthy gluten-free recipes!
  • Vanilla Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, making this a nutritious snack option. I used the Be Well By Kelly Vanilla Protein Powder, but your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder will work. Or, feel free to swap out the protein powder for unflavored collaged – I like this brand!
  • Coconut Oil: Helps bind the dough while adding healthy fats. If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use melted butter in its place.
  • Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness, complementing the protein powder and chocolate chips!
  • Chocolate Chips: Adds sweetness and richness—both mixed into the dough and melted on top for the bark. I use and love the Guittard Dairy-Free Extra Dark Chocolate Chips in all of my recipes!

Is This Cookie Dough Bark Safe to Eat?

Yes! Since it’s made without raw eggs or raw flour, this cookie dough bark is safe to eat right out of the freezer. The protein powder and almond flour create a safe, edible base.

Storage Tips

Keep the bark in an airtight container in the freezer. It stays fresh for up to two months… but there’s no way it’ll last that long! To enjoy, let it thaw for a minute or two at room temperature before serving.

protein cookie dough bark on a baking sheet.

Switch Up The Flavors of This Protein Cookie Dough Bark

Get creative by changing the flavor combinations:

  • Swap out the vanilla protein powder for chocolate or peanut butter protein.
  • Add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to the mixture for extra texture and nutrients.
  • Drizzle peanut butter or caramel over the bark before freezing.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Make it Low Carb: Replace maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup, and opt for sugar-free chocolate chips.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap the almond flour for coconut flour to make this a nut-free cookie dough bark recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-sugar, gluten-free treat. It’s made with just 5 simple ingredients and can easily be adjusted to meet various dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy cookie dough in a healthier, grab-and-go type form!

a piece of protein cookie dough bark with flaky salt on top.
5 from 4 votes

Protein Cookie Dough Bark

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough bark recipe is a quick and healthy snack that’s gluten-free and high in protein! It's easy to customize with different flavors and can easily be made vegan or low-carb. Store this protein cookie dough bark in the freezer for a quick, guilt-free snack anytime!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or your favorite liquid sweetener
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, protein powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips and mix again to combine.
  •  Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of cookie dough bark.
  • Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
  • When ready to eat, remove the protein cookie dough bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away and store leftover bark in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 23g

My 4 ingredient cookie dough bark recipe went crazy viral a few weeks ago, which inspired me to make this 5 ingredient brownie batter version! I pretty much combined that recipe with my double chocolate gluten-free edible cookie dough recipe to make this better-for-you brownie bark. It’s no-bake, vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, and even refined sugar-free! It’s also totally DELICIOUS.

What Makes This the BEST Brownie Batter Bark

The magic of this bark lies in its simplicity and clean ingredients. With just five ingredients, you get all the rich, chocolatey flavor of brownie batter without the baking, refined sugar, or dairy. The almond flour gives it a perfectly soft texture, while the maple syrup adds natural sweetness. This recipe is also incredibly versatile—you can switch up the ingredients or add mix-ins to create your perfect treat!

close-up image of brownie batter bark pieces

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Almond Flour: This grain-free flour gives the bark its brownie-like texture. It’s light, slightly nutty, and keeps the recipe low-carb and gluten-free. I purchase my almond flour in bulk because I use it in so many of my healthier dessert recipes! You can substitute with oat flour if needed, but start with a smaller amount since it absorbs less liquid.
  • Cocoa Powder: This is what gives the bark its deep chocolate flavor. Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the recipe lower in sugar. You can also use cacao powder for an extra boost of antioxidants.
  • Coconut Oil: This healthy fat adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. It also gives the bark a lovely, melt-in-your-mouth quality. Refined coconut oil is best if you want to avoid a coconut flavor, but unrefined works great, too.
  • Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the chocolate and almond flavors perfectly. You can swap it for honey or a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup if desired.
  • Chocolate Chips: Melted chocolate chips create a luscious, glossy coating for the bark, adding a satisfying crunch when set. You can use dark, semi-sweet, or even dairy-free chocolate chips to suit your dietary needs.
brownie batter bark pieces stacked on top of each other.

Is This Brownie Batter Bark Safe to Eat?

Yes! Since this recipe is no-bake and made without eggs, it’s completely safe to eat. Plus, with no refined sugars or artificial additives, it’s a cleaner dessert option that everyone can enjoy.

Storage Tips

Store your brownie batter bark in an airtight container in the freezer. It keeps well for up to two months, making it a great make-ahead treat. If you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before eating.

Switch Up the Flavors

  • Add Nut Butters: Swirl in some peanut butter or almond butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Mix in Nuts or Seeds: Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch.
  • Sprinkle Toppings: Top with flaky sea salt, coconut flakes, or sprinkles for an extra fun twist.

This brownie batter bark is a quick and versatile treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, it’s the perfect healthy indulgence that everyone will love!

holding a piece of brownie batter bark
4.25 from 32 votes

5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!)

This 5-ingredient brownie batter bark is the ultimate treat for brownie lovers. It’s vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, and low in sugar, making it a guilt-free dessert option! Perfect for parties, gifting, or just indulging in a healthier sweet snack, this bark is easy to make and so delicious. No need for an oven—just a few ingredients, a little bit of mixing, and some time in the freezer!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, cocoa powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips and mix again to combine.
  • Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of brownie batter bark.
  • Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the brownie batter bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
  • When ready to eat, remove the brownie batter bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away or store leftover bark in the freezer for later!